By Abby Sprague

June 29, 2026: On a beautiful June evening, BCW Tree House supporters gathered at the Shah family home in Bronxville for Tree Chic Fashion in the Garden — an elegant celebration of fashion, friendship, and the healing power of community.

The Shahs' stunning backyard was transformed into an enchanted garden runway, setting the stage for the evening's highlight: a fashion show presented by Baxter in Rye, the beautiful new boutique located in Rye.

The show featured 21 models from the Bronxville High School Class of 2026, most of whom had participated in the Tree House’s first Fashion & Philanthropy Senior Shadowing Program.   As guests arrived, they enjoyed exceptional small bites generously donated by Underhills Crossing Restaurant, coming together to support grieving children and families throughout Westchester.

Katie & Vivek Shah

BCW Tree House Board Chair Wendy Halley welcomed guests by reflecting on the heart of the organization's mission. "For more than thirty years, the Bereavement Center of Westchester has been the only organization in Westchester dedicated solely to grief support. We don't treat grief like a sickness to be cured — our trained facilitators help people understand that what they're feeling is normal, and that they are not alone. As we celebrate the Class of 2026 and the connections they have built, we are reminded of the extraordinary power of coming together—not only in moments of joy and achievement, but also in moments of loss and healing."

That spirit of connection carried seamlessly into the evening's fashion presentation. Baxter in Rye founder Tim Baxter explained that the show was inspired by the moments that define a Westchester summer — gatherings with family and friends, coastal escapes, milestone celebrations, and evenings spent together. His thoughtfully curated collections reflected the many occasions that bring communities closer.

Bronxville High School graduating seniors modeled luxury ready-to-wear fashions designers showcasing looks perfect for relaxed summer weekends, special celebrations, and everything in between. MK O'Shaughnessy, whose son James participated in the show added "Many of us know someone whose life has been touched by BCW Tree House," she said. "That shared understanding — and the willingness to support one another — is what makes this community so special. I'm incredibly proud of my son for being part of an evening that strengthens BCW Tree House's mission."

BCW Tree House extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated, and volunteered to make Tree Chic Fashion in the Garden such a memorable success. Special appreciation goes to event co-chairs Maureen Stapleton, Jenny De La Rosa, and Meghann Paisley for their leadership and dedication and the entire BCW Tree House Board for their tireless work bringing the evening to life. In addition, we cannot thank Sarah Loader enough, who brought the program into being and seamlessly organized our senior students participating in the Senior Shadowing program and its learning experiences in NYC produced by board member Linda MacKinnon.  We hope this program will become a new tradition at Bronxville for creating an inspiring fashion experience; Underhills Crossing Restaurant for its generous culinary donation; Diana Loft for designing the beautiful runway and stage with senior Katie Fezza; and all the student models, their families, our volunteers, sponsors, and our supporters whose generosity ensures that grieving children and families receive compassionate care when they need it most.

Finally, congratulation to the graduates of the Class of 2026!

To learn more about BCW Tree House, visit our website at bcwtreehouse.org